The European Commission has officially opened applications for the prestigious 2026 EU Gender Equality Champions Award, a major initiative designed to recognize and celebrate institutions that are making significant progress in advancing gender equality across research, innovation, leadership, and higher education.
With a total prize fund of €400,000 available, the award highlights organizations that are embedding gender equality into their institutional culture, governance structures, research environments, and innovation ecosystems. The initiative forms part of the European Union’s broader commitment to creating a more inclusive, diverse, and competitive European Research Area.
A significant development for the 2026 edition is the expansion of eligibility criteria. For the first time, research and innovation organizations from EU candidate countries can participate alongside institutions from EU Member States and Horizon Europe Associated Countries.
Organizations interested in applying must submit their applications by 29 September 2026 through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal.
About the 2026 EU Gender Equality Champions Award
Established in 2022 by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, the EU Gender Equality Champions Award recognizes institutions that have successfully implemented transformative gender equality measures within their organizations.
The award aims to encourage structural and sustainable change by highlighting successful institutional practices that promote equal opportunities, diversity, inclusion, and fairness within research and innovation environments.
By rewarding excellence and innovation in gender equality, the European Commission seeks to inspire organizations across Europe and beyond to adopt ambitious Gender Equality Plans (GEPs) and implement meaningful reforms that improve workplace culture, leadership representation, and research excellence.
Why Gender Equality Matters in Research and Innovation
Gender equality is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in strengthening research quality, innovation outcomes, and institutional performance.
Research environments that embrace diversity benefit from:
- Broader perspectives and ideas
- Improved decision-making processes
- Enhanced research quality
- Greater innovation potential
- Increased institutional competitiveness
- More inclusive leadership structures
- Better opportunities for underrepresented groups
The European Commission considers gender equality not only a social objective but also a strategic advantage that contributes to Europe’s long-term competitiveness and scientific excellence.
Prize Value and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive substantial recognition and financial support through the award program.
Benefits include:
1. Financial Awards
Winning institutions can receive prizes worth up to €100,000.
The total prize fund for the 2026 edition amounts to €400,000.
2. International Recognition
Award recipients gain visibility across Europe’s research and innovation community, positioning themselves as leaders in gender equality and institutional transformation.
3. Enhanced Institutional Reputation
Recognition from the European Commission can strengthen an institution’s profile among:
- Researchers
- Students
- Policymakers
- Funding agencies
- International partners
- Industry collaborators
4. Showcase of Best Practices
Winning organizations serve as examples of successful gender equality implementation, helping inspire similar initiatives across Europe and beyond.
5. Networking Opportunities
Award recipients gain opportunities to connect with influential stakeholders in European research, innovation, and higher education.
Award Categories
Applicants may apply to only one category.
1. Sustainable Gender Equality Champions
This category recognizes organizations that have demonstrated a strong and long-term commitment to gender equality through sustained implementation of Gender Equality Plans.
Eligible organizations should show:
- Significant structural achievements
- Long-term institutional impact
- Demonstrated progress over multiple years
- Sustainable gender equality outcomes
Number of Winners:
- One winner
Prize:
- €100,000
2. Newcomer Gender Equality Champions
This category celebrates institutions that have recently completed their first Gender Equality Plan and achieved significant progress in implementation.
Organizations should demonstrate:
- Successful launch of their first GEP
- Strong early-stage results
- Effective implementation strategies
- Clear institutional commitment
Number of Winners:
- Two winners
Prize:
- €100,000 per winner
3. Inclusive Gender Equality Champions
This category recognizes organizations that go beyond gender equality by addressing multiple dimensions of inclusion and diversity.
Applicants should demonstrate efforts that combine gender equality with at least two additional social categories, including:
- Racial or ethnic origin
- Disability
- Sexual orientation
- Social origin
- Other dimensions of diversity and inclusion
Number of Winners:
- One winner
Prize:
- €100,000
Important Eligibility Rules
Organizations planning to apply should carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Key rules include:
- Applicants may apply to only one category.
- Previous award winners are not eligible to participate again.
- Organizations must operate within research and innovation sectors.
- Institutions must satisfy category-specific criteria.
- Applications must comply with the official Rules of Contest.
What Is a Gender Equality Plan (GEP)?
A Gender Equality Plan (GEP) is a strategic framework that outlines measures and objectives aimed at improving gender equality within an organization.
Typical components include:
- Gender-balanced leadership and governance
- Equal career progression opportunities
- Inclusive recruitment processes
- Work-life balance measures
- Prevention of gender-based discrimination
- Gender-sensitive research and teaching practices
- Monitoring and evaluation systems
Under Horizon Europe, many public bodies, research organizations, and higher education institutions are required to maintain active Gender Equality Plans to qualify for certain research funding opportunities.
Application Process
Organizations must submit their applications electronically through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal.
Application Steps
- Review the official Rules of Contest.
- Identify the most suitable award category.
- Gather evidence of gender equality achievements.
- Prepare all required supporting documentation.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 29 September 2026
Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to begin preparations well in advance.
Selection Process
After the submission deadline, applications will be assessed by an independent jury composed of international experts.
The evaluation will focus on:
- Impact
- Innovation
- Sustainability
- Institutional commitment
- Quality of implementation
- Inclusiveness
Successful organizations will be selected based on their demonstrated achievements and long-term contributions to gender equality.
Announcement of Winners
The winners of the 2026 EU Gender Equality Champions Award will be officially announced during a dedicated award ceremony in Brussels in 2027.
The ceremony will celebrate institutions that are driving meaningful cultural and structural change across Europe’s research and innovation landscape.
Why Organizations Should Apply
The 2026 EU Gender Equality Champions Award represents more than a financial prize. It provides an opportunity for institutions to gain European recognition for their commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Organizations that have invested in building equitable workplaces, inclusive leadership structures, and transformative Gender Equality Plans can use this platform to showcase their achievements, inspire others, and contribute to a stronger and more inclusive European research ecosystem.
With expanded eligibility now including EU candidate countries, the 2026 edition offers a unique opportunity for a wider range of institutions to join Europe’s growing movement toward gender equality and institutional excellence.
How to Apply
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Interested organizations should submit their applications through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal before 29 September 2026.
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